Hazardous Area Classification (HAC)

Stonehouse Hazardous Area Classification Offerings

At Stonehouse, we have process safety consultants that specialize in helping clients with all aspects of Hazardous Areas and equipment contained therein:

• We classify hazardous areas by establishing the likelihood, extent and duration of flammable atmospheres; we interpret the flammability/ combustibility characteristics of hazardous materials present; all our work utilizes the latest guidelines and the relevant Codes and Standards.
• We advise on practical solutions as to how flammable atmospheres can be eliminated and/or controlled.
• We advise on the selection, and installation of electrical equipment and wiring that is suitable for use in the classified hazardous areas.
• We audit facilities to check on equipment installed and its suitability for safe use in its classified location.

In performing our work, we always find it’s worth making sure that the facility personnel is deeply involved in all steps of the process, so their knowledge is both utilized and expanded – and specific concerns are addressed.

What is Hazardous Area Classification (HAC)?

In industrial facilities, special focus is required when it comes to handling electrical equipment. Electrical sparks can be generated from faulty cables or other components. These sparks can then trigger runaway fires and ignite explosive atmospheres. The risk of explosions and fires is a major concern for sites where combustible dusts, vapors, gases, or flammable liquids are present. Every organization must be vigilant to ensure that they have measures in place to guard against that threat with hazardous area classification procedures.

Why Choose Stonehouse for Hazardous Area Classification?

Stonehouse Process Safety brings specialized technical expertise and practical engineering judgment to hazardous area classification projects. Our team combines extensive experience in flammable materials, ignition hazards, and electrical area classification to deliver accurate, practical, and cost-effective assessments.

• Specialized HAC Expertise: Experienced consultants with in-depth knowledge of hazardous area classification, electrical equipment requirements, and applicable NFPA, NEC, and IEC standards.
• Advanced Electrostatics Expertise: Specialized capabilities in electrostatic hazard assessment, including the evaluation of static electricity generation, accumulation, and discharge as potential ignition sources.
• Comprehensive Process Safety Knowledge: Multidisciplinary expertise in flammable gases, vapors, combustible dusts, process operations, ventilation, and ignition hazard identification.
• In-House Laboratory Capabilities: Access to specialized flammability, combustible dust, and electrostatic testing to support technically sound classification decisions.
• Practical, Risk-Based Recommendations: Application of sound engineering judgment to develop accurate classifications and actionable recommendations tailored to each facility’s operations.
• Cost-Effective, Tailored Solutions: Efficient assessments focused on actual process hazards, helping facilities avoid unnecessary overclassification, equipment costs, and operational restrictions while maintaining appropriate safety standards.